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Papyrus

Cyperus papyrus

Also known as

The Bulrush of The Bible, Nile Grass, Paper Reed, Papirus, Papierriet (Afr.)

Full Sun

Easy care

Frequent watering

Tender

8a-11b

USDA zone

-12°C

Minimum temperature

Expected size

Height		Spread
3m	Max	5m
2m	Min	2m

2 years to reach maturity

Flowering

spring
summer
autumn
winter

This plant has no fragrance

More images

Overview

A wetland clump-forming plant with tall bare stems and a mop-like crown or head of thread-like leaves or spikelets. It can grow up to 5m tall and heavy heads bed downwards under their own weight. They occur naturally in swamps and wetlands throughout Africa and some Mediterranean countries. It is used as building material and the rhizomes can be eaten raw or cooked. A wetland plant for gardens, adding height to the landscape. This is a common feature plant. ZA Distribution: KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga.

Common problems

Problem free

Companion plants

Water with other wetland plants like arum lilies.

Arum Lilies

Zantedeschia spp.

Harvesting

The roots are harvested for consumption by humans. Divisions and new shoots can be removed in spring time for propagation purposes.

Propagation

Division

Divide the rhizomes and replant.

Rhizomes

Divide the thick rhizomes with stems cut back and replant in wet soil.

Seed

Sow seed in Spring.

Special Features

Attracts birds

Birds use the tuffs as material for nest building.

Pot plant

Planting it in a pot in a pond will help to contain it to one area.

Wet sites

Well suited to grow in wetlands.

Attractive leaves

The leaves make interesting soft balls at the end of long stems.

Uses

Ornamental

Makes a good feature plant near water.

Raw material

In Ancient Egypt, papyrus was used for various of purposes such as baskets, sandals, blankets, medicine, incense, and boats. The woody root was used to make bowls and utensils, and was burned for fuel.

Edible

The roots are edible raw or cooked.

Environmental value

It has environmental value. With the quantities it grows in and having its roots in the water, it plays an important role in the cleaning of the environment and regulation of the ecosystem.